92 Indiana Schools recognized for Commitment to Healthy Students
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Media Contact:
Lauren Auld, Press Secretary
317-232-6617, lauld@doe.in.gov
A record ninety-two Indiana schools have received the 2008-2009 Healthy Hoosier School Award. The award honors Indiana schools that promote good nutrition and physical activity to students so they are healthy and ready to learn. The Healthy Hoosier School Award is sponsored by the Indianapolis Colts, the Indiana Department of Education, the Indiana State Department of Health, Clarian Health Partners, and the Indiana Dairy and Nutrition Council, Inc.
“By providing healthy, active environments, we prepare students to be fit, ensuring they are ready to learn,” said Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Bennett. “With a 35% increase in awardees from last year, it is clear that more Indiana schools are successfully implementing wellness initiatives.”
The Healthy Hoosier School Award presents schools with a Gold, Silver or Bronze level based upon the healthy school environment they have created. The applications are reviewed by a team of health professionals, school officials, and state and community leaders. The highest ranked elementary school and middle/high school will receive a $1,000 grant, while three runners-up in each of the school categories will receive a $500 grant.
Schools will use grants, funded by the Indianapolis Colts through the NFL’s PLAY 60 initiative, to advance wellness programming and initiatives. Award recipients must be resourceful in order to meet the interests and needs of students while promoting healthy eating and activity habits. All participating schools will receive a certificate of recognition and a Healthy Hoosier School Report Card.
A complete list of award-winning schools is available at www.doe.in.gov/food/.
